Rights Respecting Schools Award (RRSA)


 

At the Meadows School we are proud to be working towards the UNICEF Rights Respecting School Award, which places the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) at the heart of our school community. We believe that every child has the right to feel safe, valued and heard. Through a carefully adapted, inclusive approach, we help our learners understand their rights and the responsibilities that come with them. By embedding these principles into our curriculum, relationships and school culture, we promote respect, equality and a strong sense of belonging for all. Our learners are supported to express themselves, make choices and take part in decisions that affect them, building confidence and preparing them for life beyond school.

 

 

We are a Bronze UNICEF Rights Respecting School, and we will soon be working towards achieving the Silver Award. We are embedding further the UN Convention on the Rights of the Children (UNCRC) within our whole school ethos.

 

What is the UNCRC?

In 1989, UNICEF introduced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)—a set of 54 Articles that define and protect the rights of every child under the age of 18. These rights apply to all children, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, religion, language, abilities, opinions, or family background.

Almost every country in the world has signed the Convention, committing to uphold these rights and to do everything possible to protect and promote them. The UNCRC forms the foundation of all UNICEF’s work across the globe.

The Convention recognises that all children and young people have the right to be treated with dignity and fairness, to be kept safe, to reach their full potential, and to have a voice in matters that affect them. Adults—referred to as duty bearers—have the responsibility to ensure these rights are respected and fulfilled.
 

What is the Rights Respecting School Award (RRSA)?

The Rights Respecting School Award (RRSA) is a UNICEF initiative that helps schools embed the principles of the UNCRC into their ethos and daily practice. It promotes a whole-school approach to children's rights and human rights education.

A Rights Respecting School is one where children’s rights are understood, taught, practised, respected, protected, and actively promoted by all members of the school community.

The RRSA complements our School Values, supports British Values, and strengthens the work we do to promote equality, respect, and active citizenship.

At the Meadows School our named RRSA lead overseeing progress Silver and Gold RRSA levels is Pamela Meddings (Social and Emotional Development Lead).

 

You may access a child friendly version of the Convention on the Rights of the Child below (add attachment) 

 

 

For further information on the Rights Respecting schools Award please visit the RRSA website (https://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/)